Atuel: Award-Winning Climate Crisis Game Launches on Steam and Google Play

Buenos Aires, Argentina – June 30, 2025 – Matajuegos, an Argentine indie game co-operative and development studio, has officially released its acclaimed title, Atuel, on popular gaming platforms Steam and Google Play. This unique documentary game, which focuses on the pressing issue of climate change in western Argentina, was initially launched on Itch.io on September 14, 2022, and has since garnered significant attention for its innovative approach to storytelling and gameplay.

Atuel has been lauded for its integration of documentary interviews, experimental gameplay mechanics, and stunning dreamlike visuals, allowing players to experience the narratives of those affected by environmental changes. The game secured the 'Innovation in Experience Design Award' at IndieCade 2022 and has been showcased at various prestigious events, including the Marché du Film at the Cannes Film Festival and the Smithsonian American Art Museum in Washington, D.C.

The development of Atuel was a collaborative effort with The 12.01 Project, an international team of documentary filmmakers committed to highlighting environmental conservation stories. The game features real-life testimonies from specialists and locals, weaving together a narrative that explores the intricate relationship between the community and the land, particularly the Atuel River, which is central to the region's ecosystem.

Santiago Franzani, lead artist and developer at Matajuegos, emphasized the game’s intention: “We wanted Atuel to feel like a dream. It’s a documentary that puts photorealism aside in order to engage with history and emotion in a more playful way,” he stated. Players can shapeshift into various animals and elements of the environment, providing a unique perspective on the stories being told.

The game is designed for contemplative exploration, featuring breathtaking landscapes inspired by the real-world geography of the Cuyo desert. It incorporates testimonies from historians, biologists, and geologists, presenting an interconnected narrative about the region's past, present, and future.

Atuel is available for free, and its recent release on Steam and Google Play has introduced localization in seven new languages, along with full controller support. Critics have praised its ambitious concept and execution, with Andrew Plotkin describing it as “a collection of voices describing the Rio Atuel in Argentina,” emphasizing its evocative presentation.

Matajuegos, founded in 2016, aims to create games that reflect social, political, and cultural perspectives relevant to Latin America. The studio has also committed to producing Spanish-language game criticism, further enriching the gaming discourse in the region.

The success of Atuel not only underscores the potential of video games as a medium for social commentary but also highlights the importance of addressing climate change through engaging narratives. As the game reaches a broader audience, it is expected to contribute to the ongoing conversation about environmental conservation and the impact of climate change on local communities.

For those interested in experiencing this unique narrative, Atuel is now available for download on both Steam and Google Play. The game invites players to immerse themselves in a world where they can explore the beauty of nature while confronting the realities of climate change.

### Additional Context As the world grapples with the consequences of climate change, projects like Atuel serve as a reminder of the importance of storytelling in advocacy. By engaging players through interactive experiences, creators can foster a deeper understanding of environmental issues and inspire action. The gaming industry continues to evolve, and titles like Atuel pave the way for future projects that combine entertainment with meaningful messages.